Malaysia’s trade hit a record RM272.37 billion in January 2026, with exports soaring 19.6% and a trade surplus maintained for 69 consecutive months.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s trade performance began 2026 with robust growth, expanding 12.6% year-on-year to reach RM272.37 billion in January.
This marked the highest monthly value ever recorded for January, according to the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry.
Exports surged by 19.6% to RM146.87 billion, the seventh consecutive month of double-digit expansion. Imports increased by 5.3% to RM125.50 billion during the same period.
The nation’s trade surplus stood at RM21.37 billion, maintaining a positive streak for the 69th consecutive month since May 2020.
The impressive export performance was primarily driven by strong demand for manufactured goods. Electrical and electronic products led the charge, growing 39.5% to RM70.53 billion.
Higher shipments of optical and scientific equipment, along with machinery and parts, provided further support for export growth.
Exports to all major trading partners increased, led by strong double-digit growth to China, the United States, Taiwan and the European Union. Exports to ASEAN grew at a more moderate pace.
Exports to Free Trade Agreement partners also saw broad-based expansion, with shipments to Taiwan and Hong Kong reaching their highest monthly values to date.
In a separate statement, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation chief executive officer Abu Bakar Yusof said the agency will continue its proactive role in enhancing global export competitiveness.
He said this involves implementing exporter development programmes and export promotions to sustain growth momentum throughout the year.
“For 2026, MATRADE has outlined 203 high-impact programmes, including trade missions, international business matching sessions and capacity-building initiatives,” he said.
These programmes aim to empower over 13,400 Malaysian companies to penetrate and maintain their positions in global markets.
Abu Bakar added that efforts will intensify to encourage businesses to utilise 17 FTAs to strengthen market access and global competitiveness.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Finance’s Economic Outlook 2026 estimates Malaysia’s export growth will expand by 2.8% for the full year.
This projection is supported by expectations of stable demand in the global technology market, acting as a primary catalyst for high-value export performance.
The Sun Malaysia
